7-year-old dies in Boulder County crash; driver arrested

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7-year-old dies in Boulder County crash; driver arrested

BOULDER, Colo. — A 7-year-old boy was killed after a crash on the Diagonal Highway in Boulder County Friday night.

Colorado State Patrol said a Ford Explorer was approaching a red light on southbound Highway 119, when the car went through the light at the intersection on Highway 52 and swerved to avoid crossing traffic.

Troopers said the Ford managed to avoid hitting other vehicles, but rolled onto its left side. A 7-year-old passenger riding in the Ford’s cargo area was partially ejected during the crash.

The boy was not wearing his seatbelt, and was later pronounced dead at the Boulder Community Hospital.

The Ford’s driver, 41-year-old Manual Nunez-Luna of Longmont, sustained minor injuries as a result of the crash. Passengers Yadira Silva, 37, Mary Cruz-Lopez, 19, and four other children between the ages of 5 and 15 all sustained minor injuries.

Investigators said at least one other child was not wearing a seatbelt.

Troopers believe alcohol is suspected as a contributing factor in the crash. Nunez-Luna was arrested and was later released. Charges are pending.

According to CSP, the child would have needed to be in a booster seat due to his probable height and weight. The boy’s identity will be released by the Boulder County coroner.